Ashdod's New 20,000-Seat Stadium Nears Completion With UEFA Standards

Ashdod is set to unveil a new state-of-the-art football stadium with a seating capacity of approximately 20,000, designed to meet the highest UEFA standards. The project, valued at around 430 million shekels, is nearing completion with significant progress visible in recent images. The stadium is being constructed by Ken Hator Engineering and Construction, with project management led by Gal Ruach, who oversees execution, coordination among subcontractors, and quality control.

Designed by Yossi Ben Naim of Goldstein Adriti Ben Naim Architects Ltd., the stadium features complex engineering elements including heavy precast concrete components, precise steel structures, and advanced systems, making it one of Israel's most sophisticated sports infrastructure projects in recent years. The stadium is expected to be ready by September, with the hybrid grass installation planned for late November. The grass will combine natural turf with synthetic fibers, using cutting-edge technology common in leading European stadiums.

Currently, seating installation is underway, featuring red, yellow, black, and white colors. Roofing and decorative cladding works are nearly finished, giving the stadium its unique architectural look. Infrastructure work on the playing field, including drainage and ground preparation, is ongoing. Advanced lighting systems have been installed to ensure uniform illumination suitable for high-quality broadcasts and games, with calibration and programming to follow.

The new stadium will replace the old 11 Stadium in Ashdod's Aleph district, which will be redeveloped into a residential neighborhood. It is part of a larger sports complex in Lachish Park that will include a 5,000-seat arena and an Olympic swimming pool, complementing existing training facilities. Project manager Gal Ruach emphasized the stadium will be a source of pride for the city, club, and fans for many years.